Advanced Directives Have you thought about what you would want to be done medically in an emergency if you could not speak for yourself? It may not be a subject that you enjoy thinking about. But knowing you’ll receive the care you want can give you peace of mind. Having your wishes documented in an advanced directive can be helpful. What is an Advanced Directive? An … [Read more...]
The FDA Cracks Down on Stem Cell Clinics
I have written on this topic many times. The FDA is providing further muscle behind my warning that you should avoid “Stem Cell Clinics”. In a landmark statement, FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb said the agency “will not allow deceitful actors to take advantage of vulnerable patients by purporting to have treatments or cures for serious diseases without any proof that … [Read more...]
Chronic Cough and Pulmonary Fibrosis
One of the symptoms associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic cough. Certain respiratory diseases often cause a moist or wet cough that produces sputum. But people with IPF tend to have a dry cough. The exact cause of coughing in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is not entirely understood. But it is believed the coughing is due to the scarring of … [Read more...]
FAQ: Contagious Cough? Stem Cells, Familial IPF, Flying
Is the cough from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) contagious? Chronic cough from IPF is not contagious at all. It is one of the most frustrating symptoms of IPF. Please see the link to cough and IPF for more information. Chronic Cough in IPF We continue to receive many questions about stem cells and IPF. Stem cells are special cells that reside in your bone marrow, … [Read more...]
What Is Palliative Care?
If you have pulmonary fibrosis, you might have heard the term palliative care. But you may not be sure exactly what it involves. Some people confuse palliative care with hospice or assume it is only for people who are at the end of their life. Understanding what palliative means and how it can play a role in treating pulmonary fibrosis can help you to do everything possible to … [Read more...]